An exceptionally rare Laqabi polychrome ceramic dish, Syria, circa 1200-1250, of deep rounded form with everted rim, moulded and painted in underglaze cobalt blue, turquoise and manganese purple, the central well with winged sphinx, cobalt blue lobed panels to rim, 36cm diam.Provenance: Ex private US collection, reputedly acquired in the 1950’s. Accompanied by a thermoluminescence test which dates the dish to the 16th century. We have catalogued the dish as 13th century as we are of the opinion that stylistically the dish is in keeping with a 13th century date and the 16th century test result reflects later restorations.Accompanied by a thermoluminescence test which dates the dish to the 16th century. We have catalogued the dish as 13th century as we are of the opinion that stylistically the dish is in keeping with a 13th century date and the 16th century test result reflects later restorations.